Nov 6 5 Ways to Relieve Midterm Stress

Unfortunately for us graduate students, midterms do not end in undergrad. In additional to actual exams, I have projects and papers all due within two weeks of each other. Here are a few ways of de-stressing:

1. Work out at the Yates gym

We all know that exercising relieves stress and boosts your immunity and positive energy. We all might think we do not have time to work out because we are studying – however, going to the gym will be beneficial especially during these tough few weeks. It is easy for us to neglect our health but we must remember that a healthy body compliments a healthy mind. The Yates gym is easily accessible on main campus and it is free for all students.

2. Start early

There is nothing worse than stressing last minute because you procrastinated. I know some of us are procrastination experts but graduate school is different – our studies are meant to be taken more seriously especially because midterms make up such a big portion of our grade. I found using a calendar consistently with alerts to be very helpful to keep track of meetings and deadlines.

3. Food break at Georgetown

Georgetown has a plethora of food options just a short walk away from main campus. M Street has an eclectic collection of establishments, ranging from those that serve delicious burgers to dessert shops that satisfy our sweet tooth. You can also find Mexican food and acai bowls on Wisconsin Avenue. Go ahead and treat yourself – you deserve it after studying for hours and writing those papers.

4. Grab a drink (after studying)

There is some evidence that moderate consumption of alcohol can make someone more relaxed and give them a boost in mood. Students can check out the bar at Epicurean and Company on campus, go to other bars with friends all over Georgetown, or have a glass of wine before bed. Just make sure you wake up on time to start studying again!

5. Meditation

Students can join private and group meditations at the John Main Center at the Anne Marie Becraft Hall on main campus. I personally find meditation to be helpful because it makes me reduce anxiety and recalibrate my mental state. The John Main Center is open every day and I encourage everyone to try it out.